Local historic preservation
commissions are the most effective means for promoting
sustained historic preservation initiatives in our towns and
counties. In North Carolina, the creation of such
commissions is a local option authorized and governed by G.S. 160A-400.1-400.14, which
enables local governing boards to establish commissions to
study and recommend designation of local historic districts
and landmarks. Commissions are appointed by the local
governing board and operate in strict adherence to
procedures and standards required by the enabling
legislation.

Over 100 local
historic preservation commissions are active across
North Carolina. Click on a map pin below to see contact
information for the commission. Certified Local
Government commissions have green pins.

Statewide
Significance. In 1989 the state enabling
legislation was amended to authorize local commissions to
permanently deny a certificate of appropriateness for the
demolition of a building, site, or structure that is deemed
by the State Historic Preservation Officer to be of
statewide significance. Click
here
for more information.